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The Christmas Wish-tastrophe
On a dark Christmas evening, sometimes you need magic to light the way forward ... Sparkling Christmas fiction full of heart and humour for children of 9-11: comedian Cariad Lloyd creates an unforgettable seasonal story for all the family. Perfect for fans of A Boy Called Christmas and The Christmasaurus.
Christmas is the best time to believe in magic ...
One winter evening, Lydia Marmalade arrives at Lady Partridge's mansion. She has nothing except her sausage dog, Colin, but she's not going to let that stop her making this her new home.
But Lady Partridge isn't at all keen to make Lydia part of the family. If Lydia doesn't behave herself until the end of the winter season, she'll cast her off entirely. And now her mother's gone, Lydia doesn't have anywhere else to live.
Helped (and often hindered) by a winter sprite, an angry butler and a hungry Colin, Lydia makes a wish on the most magical night of the year ...
An unforgettable seasonal story for all the family, from the brilliantly funny Cariad Lloyd.
Christmas is the best time to believe in magic ...
One winter evening, Lydia Marmalade arrives at Lady Partridge's mansion. She has nothing except her sausage dog, Colin, but she's not going to let that stop her making this her new home.
But Lady Partridge isn't at all keen to make Lydia part of the family. If Lydia doesn't behave herself until the end of the winter season, she'll cast her off entirely. And now her mother's gone, Lydia doesn't have anywhere else to live.
Helped (and often hindered) by a winter sprite, an angry butler and a hungry Colin, Lydia makes a wish on the most magical night of the year ...
An unforgettable seasonal story for all the family, from the brilliantly funny Cariad Lloyd.
- GenresChristmasMiddle Grade
304 pages, Hardcover
Published October 10, 2024
7 people are currently reading
66 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
May 20, 2024
The Christmas Wish-tastrophe is a big-hearted children's fantasy adventure story.
Cariad Lloyd has created a wonderful Victorian period tale- in a world of technology, fast paced app clicking and many issue-led children's books, it is sometimes refreshing to read a book that is simply a piece of traditional escapism.
Lydia Marmalade is orphaned and finds herself ( with her sausage dog Colin) under the care of the aloof and grumpy Lady Partridge at Peppomberley Manor- complete with butler, cook , stable boy and a world of the upstairs /downstairs ( rich and humble) Lydia truest fit in but things don't go to plan.
It is shortly after her arrival at Peppomberley on St Nicholas' Day that Lydia learns of a magical way to make wishes come true- her desire is to be close to her mum again....and soon the fun begins as Bel the Sprite enters Lydia's world and things don't go to plan!
A gemstone theft, a Christmas tree on fire and a mystery to solve Lydia and her new friends endeavour to learn the truth about the past
Comical and action packed this is a great book for 7-11 year olds ...fast paced and dilemmas abound for Lydia .There is a message in the story- acceptance of true simple love and belonging - and a perfect ending to this festive winter read.
Ideal as a great bedtime read or a class story for KS2
An animated /film version would be a great Christmas Day viewing in 2025!!
Cariad Lloyd has created a wonderful Victorian period tale- in a world of technology, fast paced app clicking and many issue-led children's books, it is sometimes refreshing to read a book that is simply a piece of traditional escapism.
Lydia Marmalade is orphaned and finds herself ( with her sausage dog Colin) under the care of the aloof and grumpy Lady Partridge at Peppomberley Manor- complete with butler, cook , stable boy and a world of the upstairs /downstairs ( rich and humble) Lydia truest fit in but things don't go to plan.
It is shortly after her arrival at Peppomberley on St Nicholas' Day that Lydia learns of a magical way to make wishes come true- her desire is to be close to her mum again....and soon the fun begins as Bel the Sprite enters Lydia's world and things don't go to plan!
A gemstone theft, a Christmas tree on fire and a mystery to solve Lydia and her new friends endeavour to learn the truth about the past
Comical and action packed this is a great book for 7-11 year olds ...fast paced and dilemmas abound for Lydia .There is a message in the story- acceptance of true simple love and belonging - and a perfect ending to this festive winter read.
Ideal as a great bedtime read or a class story for KS2
An animated /film version would be a great Christmas Day viewing in 2025!!
September 9, 2024
4.5 Stars
Thanks to NetGalley and Hodder Children's Books for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.
I know this book is aimed at young children, but I have had it on my wishlist for ages because it just looked so much fun!
I don't know if there will be any picture in the finished copy (my digital copy didn't), so I'll have to take a look at the finished copy to see, as I assume there will be and I can't way to see how they accentuate the story.
I didn't realise this was in a historical setting. It's set in the 1800s, but it matters not. The excitement and thrill of the story would fit in any time period, but by setting it in a historical period it means you get that historical element. It can be hard for an adult to identify with a main character who is a child, especially a child in the 1800s, but Lydia is fantastic and was very easy to get along with.
It is pure escapism. For children and adults alike. It's fun and big hearted, action packed by relaxing. There's happiness, sadness and magic, and it makes for a gorgeous and quick read.
It wasn't what I was expecting. I'm not sure what I was expecting to be honest, but I assumed it would be a modern story with kids wishing for things for Christmas but that wasn't right. There's magic and fantasy and adventure yes, but there's history and it's a lot deeper than I expected from a festive kids book.
It's a combination of genres. It's a kids book, slightly festive, historical, adventure, magical, mystery; it's full of intrigue and entertainment and positivity.
I believe Cariad has only written one book prior to this, and that was a non-fiction on how to cope with grief. And whilst it wasn't perfect form a literary point of view, it was clear to me that her talents are not just in comedy, and I do hope this is a career path she continues to explore as I think she's got great potential.
Thanks to NetGalley and Hodder Children's Books for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.
I know this book is aimed at young children, but I have had it on my wishlist for ages because it just looked so much fun!
I don't know if there will be any picture in the finished copy (my digital copy didn't), so I'll have to take a look at the finished copy to see, as I assume there will be and I can't way to see how they accentuate the story.
I didn't realise this was in a historical setting. It's set in the 1800s, but it matters not. The excitement and thrill of the story would fit in any time period, but by setting it in a historical period it means you get that historical element. It can be hard for an adult to identify with a main character who is a child, especially a child in the 1800s, but Lydia is fantastic and was very easy to get along with.
It is pure escapism. For children and adults alike. It's fun and big hearted, action packed by relaxing. There's happiness, sadness and magic, and it makes for a gorgeous and quick read.
It wasn't what I was expecting. I'm not sure what I was expecting to be honest, but I assumed it would be a modern story with kids wishing for things for Christmas but that wasn't right. There's magic and fantasy and adventure yes, but there's history and it's a lot deeper than I expected from a festive kids book.
It's a combination of genres. It's a kids book, slightly festive, historical, adventure, magical, mystery; it's full of intrigue and entertainment and positivity.
I believe Cariad has only written one book prior to this, and that was a non-fiction on how to cope with grief. And whilst it wasn't perfect form a literary point of view, it was clear to me that her talents are not just in comedy, and I do hope this is a career path she continues to explore as I think she's got great potential.
November 25, 2024
Period setting for a Christmas story of magic and loss
3.5 stars
Recently orphaned, Lydia Marmalade (name never explained) knows she's lucky not to be sent to the workhouse, but she still can't help feeling nervous about travelling to Poppemberly Hall (I kept mispronouncing this with the Pride and Prejudice grand house), to be the ward of the cold and proper Lady Partridge. All she knows is that her much-missed mother shared a distant connection with her Ladyship, and to stay there, she must also become more ladylike.
Which won't be easy, considering she's travelling with a secret dog and doesn't know how to use more than one fork at dinnertime.
Told by a friendly cook about the silly-sounding tradition of wishes being granted on St Nicholas' Night, Lydia is shocked to find her wish to be with her mother again is attempted... by a small, fiery (literally) winter sprite called Bel, who didn't meant to be out on the wishing night, and is now stuck trying to grant an impossible wish.
With Lydia struggling to keep herself in her new home with one disaster after another and Bel fast losing ways to help grant the wish, it's not certain either will have a happy ending.
This was sweet enough, and definitely gives some useful insights through Lydia into the lives of the rich and how they differed from those further down the social order. I found Bel a little twee, but I'm not really the target market for a story about sprites I suppose!
It's an enjoyable Christmas story with some mystery and humour (Colin the always-hungry dog is always a welcome addition to the scene), and will be enjoyed by 7-10 year olds.
3.5 stars
Recently orphaned, Lydia Marmalade (name never explained) knows she's lucky not to be sent to the workhouse, but she still can't help feeling nervous about travelling to Poppemberly Hall (I kept mispronouncing this with the Pride and Prejudice grand house), to be the ward of the cold and proper Lady Partridge. All she knows is that her much-missed mother shared a distant connection with her Ladyship, and to stay there, she must also become more ladylike.
Which won't be easy, considering she's travelling with a secret dog and doesn't know how to use more than one fork at dinnertime.
Told by a friendly cook about the silly-sounding tradition of wishes being granted on St Nicholas' Night, Lydia is shocked to find her wish to be with her mother again is attempted... by a small, fiery (literally) winter sprite called Bel, who didn't meant to be out on the wishing night, and is now stuck trying to grant an impossible wish.
With Lydia struggling to keep herself in her new home with one disaster after another and Bel fast losing ways to help grant the wish, it's not certain either will have a happy ending.
This was sweet enough, and definitely gives some useful insights through Lydia into the lives of the rich and how they differed from those further down the social order. I found Bel a little twee, but I'm not really the target market for a story about sprites I suppose!
It's an enjoyable Christmas story with some mystery and humour (Colin the always-hungry dog is always a welcome addition to the scene), and will be enjoyed by 7-10 year olds.
October 9, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Hodder Children's Books for this eCopy to review
Imagine arriving at a grand estate with nothing but a small dog and a heart full of hope. That’s precisely how our journey begins with Lydia Marmalade in The Christmas Wish-tastrophe, a delightful holiday novel by Cariad Lloyd.
Lydia finds herself at Lady Partridge's mansion, determined to turn it into her new home despite her humble beginnings, accompanied by her sausage dog, Colin, Lydia navigates through a series of whimsical and heartfelt adventures that bring the true spirit of Christmas to life.
Lydia is very endearing. Her resilience, coupled with her optimistic outlook, makes her instantly likable. Colin, her loyal companion, adds a touch of charm and lightheartedness. Lady Partridge, with her stern exterior and hidden kindness, serves as a perfect foil to Lydia’s sunny disposition.
I enjoyed how Lydia found a home and family in the most unexpected places, with plenty of love and magic to go around the Christmas spirit is beautifully portrayed.
Lloyd’s writing is full of humour and her descriptions are vivid, making you feel as though you’re right there with Lydia and Colin, and their new friends experiencing the joys and challenges of their adventure.
The Christmas Wish-tastrophe is a delightful read that encapsulates the magic of Christmas. It’s a story about hope, resilience, and the importance of community and kindness. Perfect for cosying up by the fire with a hot cup of cocoa, this book is sure to become a holiday favourite.
Imagine arriving at a grand estate with nothing but a small dog and a heart full of hope. That’s precisely how our journey begins with Lydia Marmalade in The Christmas Wish-tastrophe, a delightful holiday novel by Cariad Lloyd.
Lydia finds herself at Lady Partridge's mansion, determined to turn it into her new home despite her humble beginnings, accompanied by her sausage dog, Colin, Lydia navigates through a series of whimsical and heartfelt adventures that bring the true spirit of Christmas to life.
Lydia is very endearing. Her resilience, coupled with her optimistic outlook, makes her instantly likable. Colin, her loyal companion, adds a touch of charm and lightheartedness. Lady Partridge, with her stern exterior and hidden kindness, serves as a perfect foil to Lydia’s sunny disposition.
I enjoyed how Lydia found a home and family in the most unexpected places, with plenty of love and magic to go around the Christmas spirit is beautifully portrayed.
Lloyd’s writing is full of humour and her descriptions are vivid, making you feel as though you’re right there with Lydia and Colin, and their new friends experiencing the joys and challenges of their adventure.
The Christmas Wish-tastrophe is a delightful read that encapsulates the magic of Christmas. It’s a story about hope, resilience, and the importance of community and kindness. Perfect for cosying up by the fire with a hot cup of cocoa, this book is sure to become a holiday favourite.
January 11, 2025
'The Christmas Wish-tastrophe' is recognizably Cariad's work when you start it, and what a cute idea - combining Cariad's experiencing the loss of a parent while still a child and placing her protagonist in the Regency era! Lydia Marmalade is a heroine that kids can relate to, navigating a world full of rules and strictures that she finds difficult to follow.
Her wish to have her mother with her again causes some trouble for a woodland sprite named Bel, though not in the way you would imagine. See, since Lydia's mother is dead, she has made a wish impossible for Bel to grant, causing the titular 'wish-tastrophe.' Instead of diving into the fantastical, the two have to work together to come up with an alternative way for Lydia to feel her wish had come true - and all before Bel's magic (and Bel herself) disappears for good.
The characters in this book are delightful, particularly Lydia's naughty sausage dog, Colin. The story is heartwarming, gentle, and lovely. What an excellent story about a child navigating grief and finding a new sense of home!
Her wish to have her mother with her again causes some trouble for a woodland sprite named Bel, though not in the way you would imagine. See, since Lydia's mother is dead, she has made a wish impossible for Bel to grant, causing the titular 'wish-tastrophe.' Instead of diving into the fantastical, the two have to work together to come up with an alternative way for Lydia to feel her wish had come true - and all before Bel's magic (and Bel herself) disappears for good.
The characters in this book are delightful, particularly Lydia's naughty sausage dog, Colin. The story is heartwarming, gentle, and lovely. What an excellent story about a child navigating grief and finding a new sense of home!
August 5, 2024
A delightful Christmas tale with just the right amount of magic.
I loved this book from start to finish and I can highly recommend it. I think this book will make a perfect addition to any library, school or child's reading collection; I know I'll certainly be buying it!
In my opinion, this story has just the right amount sadness, happiness, emotion and magical mystery in it to keep children and adults alike interested. I have to confess it even managed to bring a tear to my eyes at one point.
Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to read this advance copy and a huge well done to Cariad Lloyd.
I loved this book from start to finish and I can highly recommend it. I think this book will make a perfect addition to any library, school or child's reading collection; I know I'll certainly be buying it!
In my opinion, this story has just the right amount sadness, happiness, emotion and magical mystery in it to keep children and adults alike interested. I have to confess it even managed to bring a tear to my eyes at one point.
Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to read this advance copy and a huge well done to Cariad Lloyd.
October 14, 2024
This was brilliant. Poor Lydia has lost her mum and is sent to live with someone she doesn't know and who, it appears, doesn't really want her there. She learns a lot about family and friendships while she is there and how they make life better. She starts the book alone and missing her mum, but by the end she has a group of people around her who love her. She also discovers some family secrets along the way and learns how to have fun. This is a great read with a really heartwarming message.
November 5, 2024
Magical middle grade Christmas fiction. My review is here: http://vsviewfromthebookshelves.home....
December 29, 2024
Ahhhhhhh this is lovely. A sweet, moving, funny and daft festive story. It's also perfect for kids (and big kids) dealing with grief.
December 30, 2024
3.75 stars. A sweet Christmas story about dealing with loss, finding new family and a dash of sprite magic. Heartwarming and easy to read, with satisfying ending. Recommended for ages 8 - 12.
December 20, 2025
This was a lovely Christmas read! The story was wonderful and got me in the Christmas spirit. This is my fav Christmas book 📖. Would 100% read Cariad Lloyd again ❤️
December 29, 2024
Yes, I’m a grown woman, but I heard Cariad promoting this book in various podcasts and it was indeed a fun little festive read for a cosy afternoon. I hope I’m not doing it a disservice with my rating.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews